Exposure of bagasse to 8
industrial preservatives such as sodium meta bisulphite (reducing agent),
calcium hypochlorite and iodine (oxidizing agents) and Contaf-5E, Celphos,
BU-30, liquid ammonia and quat-2C (broad spectrum fumigants/fungicides) was
explored for its preservation at 200 kg scale for 6 months under ambient
conditions, mimicking pulp and paper mill practices. Bacterial and fungal
count, fiber and pith content, temperature, pH, reducing sugars (soluble
content) and brightness were monitored at monthly frequency to judge the
efficacy of the above preservatives. Among them, only Celphos appeared to be
superior to others, besides being cost-effective, eco-friendly and practical
preservative on the basis of parameters monitored. Its application is suggested
until better preservative is identified.

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